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Music, Religion and Politics at Worcester Cathedral, 680-1950 - cover image

Copyright

Richard Newsholme

ISBN

Paperback978-1-80511-453-6
Hardback978-1-80511-454-3
PDF978-1-80511-455-0
HTML978-1-80511-457-4
EPUB978-1-80511-456-7

Language

  • English

Dimensions

Paperback156 x 234 mm (6.14" x 9.21")
Hardback156 x 234 mm (6.14" x 9.21")

Media

Illustrations48
Tables4

THEMA

  • AVM
  • AVLK
  • QRVJ1
  • QRMB31

BISAC

  • MUS020000
  • REL015000
  • REL055020
  • REL003000
  • HIS015000

Keywords

  • Worcester Cathedral
  • British Church History
  • British polyphony
  • Music history
  • Lady Chapel choirs
  • monastic ritual
  • liturgy and architecture
  • cathedral choirs
  • cathedral priories
  • cathedral choirs

    Music, Religion and Politics at Worcester Cathedral, 680-1950

    • Richard Newsholme (author)
    FORTHCOMING
    This book provides a comprehensive history of music and liturgy at Worcester Cathedral, from its foundation in the seventh century to the mid-20th century. The author delves into how political shifts, public opinion, and national trends have influenced changes in the cathedral's practices over time, while also highlighting the distinct local dynamics at play.

    The book captures the fluctuating significance of liturgy and music across different eras, from the strict, ritualistic practices of Benedictine monks to the rejection of ceremonial traditions by Interregnum Non-Conformists. It traces how the form of worship evolved in response to the beliefs of church leaders, leading to periods of decline and revival in the cathedral’s musical standards. Notably, the study explores Worcester’s role in the development of British polyphony up to the 14th century and the comforting role of the choir during World War I.

    With a wealth of surviving Anglo-Saxon charters, medieval liturgical manuscripts, and unique polyphonic fragments, this volume offers rare insights into centuries-old practices. While it focuses on Worcester, the study reflects broader trends in English cathedral history, providing a vital resource for understanding the interplay of music, religion, and politics in the evolution of worship.

    Endorsements

    Newsholme's meticulously researched study of Worcester Cathedral and its music, musicians, clergy, and liturgical practices combines intensive exploration of documentary sources with thoughtful historical and theological context. It is an invaluable resource that should appeal to anyone interested in the history of English cathedral music.

    Prof Joseph Sargent

    The University of Alabama

    Table of Contents

    Acknowledgements

    List of IllustrationS

    Preface

    1. The Music and Liturgy of the Medieval Mass and Office (680–1540)

    2. Early Polyphony and the Worcester Lady Chapel Choir (c.1250–1540)

    3. The Reformation and Changes under Four Tudor Monarchs (1520–1600)

    4. Thomas Tomkins and the Earlier Seventeenth Century (1596–1646)

    5. The Interregnum and Managing the Aftermath of Civil War (1646–60)

    6. The Restoration of the Monarchy and Reinstating the Anglican Church (1660–1700)

    7. A New Prosperity and More Settled Cathedral Liturgy (1700–40)

    8. A Mixed Century: The Later Georgian Period (1740–1840)

    9. Queen Victoria’s Reign: Changes after the Cathedrals Act of 1840 (1840–1900)

    10. The Earlier Twentieth Century and Two World Wars (1900–50)

    Postscript

    Abbreviations

    Bibliography

    Index


    Contributors

    Richard Newsholme

    (author)

    The author is a retired medical practitioner with a longstanding interest in the music and history of Worcester Cathedral. He is fortunate to have been granted extended access to the cathedral library by the librarian, Dr David Morrison, and the Worcester Dean and Chapter.